The Rio 2016 Olympics are fast approaching and many have already arranged their travel plans to enjoy the games but as with all international events, precaution must be exercised by travelers. Brazil, Rio and the Olympic committee have come under criticism for allowing the games to be held in a country known for its government corruption, slums and poverty, high levels of crime and in certain areas, failing infrastructure. It has been pointed out that while the games will bring prosperity to many in the region, they are likely to endanger visitors, causing them to be targeted by those that would use the opportunity for criminal intent and that the influx of visitors would cause local authorities to become over-stretched and therefore, ineffective.

The London 2012 Olympic Games

During the Olympic games in London in 2012, cases of pickpockets rose by 20% to 1,700 per day. It was reported that gangs from Europe and South America descended on the city in the lead up to and during the games for the sole purpose of robbing unsuspecting spectators. London is a safe city on a relatively isolated island, with low levels of crime and pickpocketing and is part of a safe and prosperous region in Europe.

Brazil on the other hand shares its borders with many countries that share the same problems and, as mentioned, suffers from high levels of crime and is ranked 15th in the world for homicide rate. Besides this, the most common crimes reported in Brazil are robberies, carjackings and in-particular pickpocketing for which, the rates soar during festivals and events such as carnaval, it is also widely accepted that visitors are not only "fair game" but directly targeted by criminals. There are also currently protests in Rio over a brutal gang rape that was filmed and posted on social media emphasizing the city's continued struggle with violent crime and its apparent acceptance of the criminal culture that's strong in Rio today.

Being a travel safety company we do try to stress the importance of taking care whilst on your travels, especially with world renowned events such as the Olympics coming up. It's easy to get excited about visiting new places and neglect your own safety so we simply try to remind everyone and make it easier for travelers to keep safe! Not least through our range of Pick-Pocket proof clothing, that said, most travelers will have a great time and not run into trouble but by following our tips, you can make 100% sure you wont! You can find more tips on how to stay safe whilst traveling here and learn to spot the most common scams that are set up to rip off tourists here.